Man United line up surprise transfer target as Carlos Baleba alternative emerges

Vishal Bhawani

Man United line up surprise transfer target as Carlos Baleba alternative emerges image

Manchester United’s search for midfield reinforcements has taken another twist. The club had apparently made Brighton’s Carlos Baleba their prime target, but the asking price of more than £100 million left the deal out of reach.

With time running out in the summer window, the Red Devils are now looking at a cheaper but still effective solution.

According to reports in Spain (via Orgullo Biri), Sevilla midfielder Lucien Agoume has appeared on United’s radar.

The 23-year-old Frenchman has a £35 million release clause, though Sevilla could reportedly agree to a fee closer to £26 million.

That figure suddenly makes him a bargain compared to Baleba’s price tag.

Other midfield names such as Adam Wharton and Ederson have been linked, but their cost is also proving a challenge. For now, Agoume looks like the affordable option United are weighing up.

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Why Man United want to sign Lucien Agoume?

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Agoume only joined Sevilla in 2024 from Inter Milan but has quickly become a regular. He featured more than 35 times in La Liga last season, showing both energy and discipline in midfield.

His ability to win tackles, recycle possession, and distribute with accuracy has made him a standout.

United manager Ruben Amorim has already seen Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, and Manuel Ugarte form the current midfield core.

Yet with Christian Eriksen gone and youngster Toby Collyer out on loan, there is still a gap for another option. Agoume’s price and potential make him attractive.

There is, however, a catch. Inter Milan will reportedly receive 10% of any future sale, which could affect negotiations. Also, competition from other Premier League clubs may complicate matters.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano also poured some cold water on the hype, saying: “I’m not aware of Man United opening talks for other midfielders after Baleba… yet. Let’s see in the upcoming days.”

That update leaves United fans guessing whether this deal is real or just another passing rumor. But with deadline day closing in, the midfield merry-go-round at Old Trafford might still have another spin left.

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Vishal Bhawani

Vishal Bhawani is a sub-editor for the Affiliate Content team and a writer and sub-editor for the Football Wires team at The Sporting News. Based in Indore, India, he holds a Diploma in Operations and Management from Maharashtra University.

Before joining TSN in May 2024, Vishal contributed to Football Express and Six Sports and ran his own blog, Anfield Home, as a passionate Liverpool fan. An avid traveler, he follows multiple sports, including cricket, soccer, and tennis.